Paroxetine is in a class of drugs called selective serotonin reuptake inhibitors (SSRIs), a class
that also contains fluoxetine (Prozac) and sertraline (Zoloft). It works by restoring the balance of certain natural substances in the brain, which help to elevate moods. It is
used to treat depression, obsessive-compulsive disorder, anxiety disorders, post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD), and premenstrual dysphoric disorder (PMDD).

Take Paroxetine exactly as directed by your doctor. Do not take
the medication in larger amounts, or take it for longer than recommended by your doctor. Paroxetine may be taken on an empty stomach or with food. It is given as a single
daily dose, usually in the morning. It may take up to 4 weeks of using this medicine before your symptoms improve. For best results, keep using the medication as directed.
Talk with your doctor if your symptoms do not improve after 4 weeks of treatment.
Doses for obsessive- compulsive disorders and panic disorders are often higher than
those for depression. Doses often are adjusted to find the optimal dose. Elderly patients, debilitated persons, and patients with certain kidney or liver diseases may need
lower doses because they metabolize and eliminate paroxetine more slowly and, therefore, are prone to develop high blood levels. Paroxetine should be kept at room
temperature, 15- 30°C (59-86°F).

Most common side effects associated with paroxetine are anxiety, sweating, nausea, decreased appetite, somnolence (sleepiness),
dizziness, insomnia, and male sexual disturbances. Dry mouth occurs in about 18% of patients taking paroxetine.
Call your doctor at once if you have any of these
serious side effects such as seizure (convulsions); tremors, shivering, muscle stiffness or twitching; problems with balance or coordination; or agitation, confusion, sweating,
fast heartbeat.
Other less serious side effects are more likely to occur, such as feeling nervous, restless, or unable to sit still; drowsiness, dizziness, weakness; sleep
problems (insomnia); nausea, constipation, loss of appetite; weight changes; decreased sex drive, impotence, or difficulty having an orgasm; or dry mouth, yawning, or
ringing in your ears.
If you have any of these signs of an allergic reaction such as skin rash or hives; difficulty breathing; swelling of your face, lips, tongue, or throat, get
emergency medical help.
Contact your doctor promptly if you have any of the following side effects, especially if they are new symptoms or if they get worse: mood
changes, anxiety, panic attacks, trouble sleeping, irritability, agitation, aggressiveness, severe restlessness, mania (mental and/or physical hyperactivity), thoughts of
suicide or hurting yourself.
Talk to your doctor about any side effect that seems unusual or that is especially bothersome.

Talk to your doctor before taking any
medicine for pain, arthritis, fever, or swelling. All SSRIs, including paroxetine, should not be taken with any of the MAO (mono-amine oxidase) inhibitor-class of
anti-depressants, for example, isocarboxazid (Marplan), phenelzine (Nardil), tranylcypromine (Parnate), and procarbazine (Matulane). Such combinations may lead to
confusion, high blood pressure, tremor, and increased activity. This same type of interaction may also occur with selegiline (Eldepryl), fenfluramine (Pondimin), and
dexfenfluramine (Redux). The anti-ulcer medication, cimetidine (Tagamet) can increase the amount of paroxetine in the blood, possibly leading to side effects. It may
increase the risk of bleeding in patients taking warfarin (Coumadin). Tryptophan when taken with any SSRI can cause headaches, nausea, sweating, and dizziness.
Phenytoin (Dilantin) and phenobarbital may decrease the amount of paroxetine in the body and possibly reducing its effectiveness.
Tell your doctor about all the
prescription and over-the-counter medications you use. This includes vitamins, minerals, herbal products, and drugs prescribed by other doctors. Do not start using a new
medication without telling your doctor.

If you exceed the recommended dose of this medicine, seek emergency medical attention. Symptoms due to overdose of
paroxetine may include nausea, vomiting, tremor, sweating, decreased urination, blurred vision, rapid heartbeat, confusion, aggression, seizures, and coma.

If you miss
a dose of this medicine and you are using it regularly, take it as soon as possible. If it is almost time for your next dose, skip the missed dose and go back to your regular
dosing schedule. Do not take 2 doses at once.

Paroxetine
is indicated for the management of depression, obsessive-compulsive disorders, panic disorders, and premenstrual dysphoric disorder.
Paroxetine is also used
occasionally to treat headaches, diabetic leg pain, and premature ejaculation. Talk to your doctor about the possible risks of using this drug for your condition. This
medication may be prescribed for other uses; ask your doctor or pharmacist for more information.